Tag: Music

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Rolando Morales thoughts this week and August 2016 Calendar

Rolando Morales at private event
Rolando Morales at private event
A member of Parliament to Disraeli: "Sir, you will either die on the gallows or of some unspeakable disease.”
 "That depends, Sir, " said Disraeli, “whether I embrace your policies or your mistress."
 Aaahh… The good old days, when low-cutting political insults required wit and eloquence.

August 1, 2016

Hola, Mi Gente!

July’s political theater has helped the month scurry by.  When coupled with the positive experiences of so many private events I played through last week, the month seemed but a blink of an eye.  (Which reminds me…  For those of you who have been asking, yes, my right eye is so much improved, but I still have an intermittent white veil that obstructs part of my vision, but that should go away within a few more weeks.)

Through it all, my August Calendar suddenly reveals itself tomorrow, Tuesday August 2nd with my first appearance in almost 6 weeks at Maria, Maria in Danville from 6-9pm.  That will be my only public appearance of the week, as I will be doing only private events for the next  week.

After I return, there will be plenty of public shows to chose from throughout August.  Some highlights include an exciting version of my Trio performing on Saturday August 13 at the brand new Pairings Cellars in Pleasanton.  The band will feature the great Paraguayan violinist Carlos Reyes, Grammy-winning Latin percussionist/vocalist Omar Ledezma and myself on guitar, guitar synth and voice.  Details below.  

Then on August 17, I’ll be doing a very rare Wednesday duet performance for you South Bay fans at the San Jose Fairmont in the Lobby Lounge from 9-Midnight.  I’ll feature the delightful violinist Ms. Patricia Weiss.  She has shared the stage with the Gipsy Kings.  Details below.

There’s much more to come.  I’ll  see you at the show!

Ciao,

Rolando 

PUBLIC PERFORMANCES FOR AUGUST 2016

Tuesday Aug 2, Maria, Maria Cantina, 710 Camino Ramon Road, Danville CA, approx 6-9pm.  After 5 weeks away, Rolando finally returns to Carlos Santana’s most elegant restaurant for Taco Tuesday.  $1 tacos, baby!  And Rolando on solo guitar and voice with his diverse repertoire performing out on the patio by the fire pits.  (925) 820-2366.  See www.mariamariarestaurants.com.

Friday Aug 12, Don Pico’s Mexican Bistro, 461 El Camino Real, San Bruno, 6 to 9 pm.  Rolando returns to the place The Examiner and Independent have proclaimed has the “Best Seafood and Best Mexican Food” anywhere, on solo guitar and voice in the Restaurant Room.  Call (650) 589-1163, www.donpicosbistro.com.

Saturday Aug 13, Pairings Cellars, 310 Main Street, Suite B, Pleasanton CA 94566, 8-11pm.  Rolando returns to this brand new, exciting social hotspot in downtown Pleasanton.  This new wine bar features fine wines, tapas and the Rolando Morales Trio, featuring from Paraguay, the thrilling violinist with Steve Miller and Arturo Sandoval, the great Carlos Reyes; from Venezuela, the Grammy-winning Latin percussionist/vocalist Omar Ledezma; and Rolando Morales leading the way on guitar, guitar synth and voice. Free!x www.pairingscellars.com, (925) 398-8846.

Sunday Aug 14, Maria, Maria Cantina, 1470 North Broadway, Walnut Creek, approx 2-5pm.  Rolando returns for the Maria, Maria Tardeada series.  Enjoy a Mexican brunch outdoors and Rolando performing on the newly renovated front patio on solo guitar and voice by the creek.  He may be joined by flautist Bob Harrison.  www.mariamariarestaurants.com, or call (925) 946-1010.

Wednesday Aug 17, The San Jose Fairmont, Lobby Lounge, 170 South Market St., San Jose CA, 9pm-Midnight.  Rolando returns for you South Bay fans to this elegant venue.  Celebrate the night with fine wines, unique martinis, appetizers and sushi along with the Rolando Morales Duet, this time featuring the delightful violinist who played with the Gipsy Kings, Ms. Patricia Weiss; and Rolando Morales leading the way on guitar and vocals and his magic pedal board.  Free!  See www.fairmont.com/sanjose/ for info, or call (408) 998-1900.

Saturday Aug 20, Don Pico’s Mexican Bistro, 461 El Camino Real, San Bruno, 6 to 9 pm.   Rolando  returns on solo guitar and voice in the intimate Restaurant Room for a rare Saturday night performance.  Call (650) 589-1163 and see  www.donpicosbistro.com.

Sunday Aug 21, Maria, Maria Cantina, 1470 North Broadway, Walnut Creek, approx 2-5pm.  Enjoy a Mexican brunch and Rolando performing on the newly renovated front patio on solo guitar and voice by the creek.  If it’s too hot, it will be indoors.   He may be joined by Bob Harrison on flute.   www.mariamariarestaurants.com,   (925) 946-1010.

Friday Aug 26, Pairings Cellars, 310 Main Street, Suite B, Pleasanton CA 94566, 8-11pm.  Rolando returns to this brand new, exciting social hotspot in downtown Pleasanton.  This new wine bar features fine wines, tapas and this time, Rolando on solo guitar and voice.  Free! www.pairingscellars.com, (925) 398-8846.

Saturday Aug 27, Vine at Bridges, 480 Hartz Avenue, Danville, approx 8-11pm.  The Rolando Morales Duet returns to this cool winery and nightspot.  Enjoy a wonderful selection of wines, superb dinners and munchies while enjoying this powerful duet.  Tonight Rolando reunites with the charismatic Latin percussionist/vocalist from George Benson and Prince, the delightful Estaire Godinez; and on guitar, voice and his pedal board of magic, the passionate Rolando Morales.  They’ll cover the musical spectrum.  Don’t miss it!  www.thevineatbridges.com, (925) 820-7210. 

Sunday Aug 28, Maria, Maria Cantina, 1470 North Broadway, Walnut Creek, approx 2-5pm.  Enjoy a Mexican brunch at Carlos Santana’s lively cantina and Rolando performing on the newly renovated front patio on solo guitar and voice by the creek. He may be joined by Bob Harrison on flute. www.mariamariarestaurants.com,   (925) 946-1010.

Tuesday Aug 30, Maria, Maria Cantina, 710 Camino Ramon Road, Danville CA, approx 6-9pm.  Rolando returns to Carlos Santana’s most elegant restaurant for Taco Tuesday.  $1 tacos, baby!  And Rolando on solo guitar and voice with his diverse repertoire performing out on the patio by the fire pits.  We’ll see if he has any special guests sitting in…  (925) 820-2366, www.mariamariarestaurants.com. 

All other shows are private.  Why not hire Rolando for your own private event?  He’s available for corporate shows, weddings, parties, concerts and festivals. The Rolando Morales group is available as sextet, quintet, quartet, trio and duo depending on your entertainment needs and budget.  

 

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Pacific Mambo is enchanting audiences

Omar Ledezmal Jamming
Omar Ledezma Jamming

The band seems like a collection of the San Francisco Bay Areas best of the best. These amazing musicians came from all around the world and formed this amazing ensemble.

CHRISTIAN TUMALAN, PIANO Born in Celaya, Guanajuato, Mexico. In addition to his pianistic studies, he felt a powerful attraction to the art of composition. During a period of seven years, he studied classical piano at the “Escuela Superior de Musica” in Mexico City. Later, He turned his interests towards Jazz, a language field where he felt a deep compassion and freedom. He then further developed his skills in live performance, Jazz and Big Band arranging achieving 4 professional majors in Music. Currently, Tumalan performs actively in the United States, where he has shared the stage with numerous professional musicians including John Santos, Giovani Hidalgo, Pete Escobedo, Los adolecentes Orchestra, Eddie Santiago, Tony Vega, Johnny Rivera, Johnny Polanco, Rub Blades, Tony Perez, Eddie Marshall, Chucho Valdez jr, Bill Watrous, Danny Lozada & La charanga Habanera, Louie Romero, Orestes Vilato, Benny Velarde, Ray de la Paz, Chino Espinoza, Poncho Sanchez Band among many other local and international artists. His most recent participations as a Leader includes two very successful Latin Projects in the Bay area such as Montuno Swing and Pacific Mambo Orchestra.

STEFFEN KUEHN, TRUMPET was born and raised in Germany and began playing the trumpet at the age of eight. Twenty years later he received his Bachelor of Music from the prestigious University of North Texas in 1993, majoring in Jazz Trumpet and Jazz Studies. Being interested in Straight Ahead Jazz, Smooth Jazz as well as in Latin Jazz and Salsa, Steffen scored big in 2002 with the CD release ‘Now or Later” of his Jazz Nonet, that featured 2001 Grammy Nominee Tim Hagans. That year also marked the inception of his own record label ‘stefrecords’.?Fast forward to 2005: Having joined the Latin Jazz orchestra of legendary timbalero Louie Romero, the band recorded its first album ‘Timbalero’ and released it on ‘stefrecords’ in 2006 to rave reviews. His 2008 release ‘trumpop’ was in the running for a Grammy nomination for ‘Best Contemporary Jazz Album’ and has been receiving national & international airplay & recognition. He has shared music moments with Jazz greats such as: Tim Hagans, Brian Lynch, Claudio Roditi, The Temptations, Brian Culbertson, Jose Lugo Latin Orchestra, Issac Delgado, Marilyn McCoo, John Handy, Mark Levine, Chico Freeman, Tim Hagans, Ray Obiedo, Kenny Werner, Ray DeLa Paz, The 4 Tops, Ray Sepulveda, The Platters, Lydia Pense & Cold Blood, In Europe, he played as a sideman for: Dusko Gojkovich Big Band, Al Porcino Big Band, Conexion Latina and others.

KARL PERAZZO, TIMBALES 14 times Grammy Award Winner, Karl Perazzo has played with Cal Tjader, Malo, Ray Obiedo, Prince and Andy Narell by the time he was 12. His life-long dream was realized in 1991 when he joined Santana to play Timbales. Perazzo has also performed and recorded with Mariah Carey, Dizzy Gillespie, Herbie Hancock, Phish, The United Nations Orchestra and John Lee Hooker among many other international Celebrities.In addition to performing and recording, Perazzo teaches percussion. Along with Santana conguero and LP endorser Raul Rekow, Perazzo starred in LP’s popular instructional video From Afro-Cuban to Rock, which breaks down the complex musical rhythms of Cuban percussion.

OMAR LEDEZMA JR., TIMBALES from Caracas, Venezuela, GRAMMY Award Winner Omar Ledezma Jr. has been playing professionally since the age of 13. At the age of 17, he found him performing in every corner of his native country. National musical acclaim rested light on the shoulders of Ledezma as 1995 found him a graduate of one of the most prestigious Law Schools in Caracas, Venezuela. In 1998 Omar packed one bag and one drum to begin his move to Boston, Massachusetts after making a passionate commitment to study at Berklee College of Music, Boston and then New York City held many challenges and provided many opportunities. Moving to the Bay Area in 2005, Omar has committed himself not to “bring the music back” or “take the music forward” but thrive upon embracing “the existing”.

There are so many more amazing artists find out more on www.pacificmambo.com

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Rolando Morales, Carlos Reyes and Omar Ledezma at Pairing Cellars Saturday, August 13, 2016

Rolando Morales, Carlos Reyes and Omar Ledezma together at Pairings Cellars August 13, 2016
Rolando Morales, Carlos Reyes and Omar Ledezma together at Pairings Cellars August 13, 2016World Class Musician appear on local stage
Three World-Class Musicians appear on local stage

Rolando Morales has performed throughout Spain, England, Italy, Ireland, Mexico, and Hawaii. In Los Angeles, he largely played electric guitars. Just out of college, he played with a 9 piece casual band comprised of members who backed such stars as Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, Marvin Gaye, and Poncho Sanchez.  He regularly plays with world-class musicians who work with luminaries as Airto, Flora Purim, Steve Winwood, Tower of Power, Spearhead, Ruben Blades, Carlos Santana, Pete Escovedo, and performed with Dizzy Gillespie and many others. Rolando Morales studied law and graduated.  He decided for Music his first love and we all thank him.

Carlos Reyes learned to play many different instruments including Guitar, Bass, Mandolin, Keyboards, as well as mastering the use of a variety of electronic devices and special effects. He made his debut on harp with the Oakland Symphony and his debut on the violin with the Oakland Youth Symphony at just fourteen years of age. He has worked in the professional recording industry for commercials, solo artist and instrumental background music for the acclaimed children’s shows “Sesame Street” and “Villa Alegre” when he was still in his teens. He has backed such artist as Chuck Mangione, Bill Evans, Clark Terry, Pat Travers, MC Hammer, Craig Chaquico, The Crusaders, The Rippingtons, Roy Rogers to Charlie Daniels, Wynona Judd, Clint Black, Willie Nelson, John Handy, The Doobie Brothers, Rocker Steve Miller and many more.

From Caracas, Venezuela, GRAMMY Award Winner Omar Ledezma Jr. has been playing professionally since the age of 13. At the age of 17, he found him performing in every corner of his native country. National musical acclaim rested light on the shoulders of Ledezma as 1995 found him a graduate of one of the most prestigious Law Schools in Caracas, Venezuela. In 1998 Omar packed one bag and one drum to begin his move to Boston, Massachusetts after making a passionate commitment to study at Berklee College of Music, Boston and then New York City held many challenges and provided many opportunities. Moving to the Bay Area in 2005, Omar has committed himself not to “bring the music back” or “take the music forward” but thrive upon embracing “the existing”.

Three men, three world class talents we are so spoiled in the Bay Area

 

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Jim Dennis, historic Artist Talk and Grand Opening of “50 Years in a Flash” Aug. 5th at Joyce Gordon Gallery

Opening Ceremony Joyce Gordon

Join us this Friday, August 5th from 6-9pm for the Opening reception and Artist Talk of “50 Years In A Flash” by renowned Bay Area photographer, Jim Dennis.

50 Years In A Flash | Photography by Jim Dennis
 August 5 - August 27, 2016
 Opening Reception and Artist Talk: Friday, August 5th 6-9pm
Artist Talk by Jim Dennis starts at 7pm

This retrospective of photography includes portraits, nudes, music, flowers and landscapes by internationally renowned Bay Area photographer Jim Dennis.??”50 Years In a Flash” captures an array of moments throughout Jim Dennis’ image making career. including photographs inspired by his early travels as the first African American photographer on assignment with Eastman Kodak in New York. Other works include portraits ranging from famed musicians such as Miles Davis, Duke Ellington, John Handy, Faye Carol; dignitaries include the Dali Lama, former S.F. Mayor Willie Brown to celebrated locals. His color and black and white nude portraits are perhaps his most recognized and praised work. Also featured in this exhibit is a KTOP documentary interview “A Glimpse Into Jim Dennis.” Later in the month we celebrate Jim Dennis’ day of birth with an hour exhibition tour in the gallery followed by an extended version of his jazz and music collection at Geoffrey’s InnerCircle including live music and food. The exhibit culminates in a paid photo session where the public is invited to have their portraits taken in the gallery by Jim Dennis.

Pete Escovedo Family
Pete Escovedo Family by Jim Dennis Photography

Jim Dennis’ Birthday Celebration August 18th 6 – 11pm | Gallery Tour 6-7pm | Celebration at Geoffrey’s InnerCircle (410 14th St, Oakland) 7-11pm featuring an extended music collection

Closing Reception: August 27th 1-4pm
Portrait Session w/ makeup artist | Contact gallery for details
Joyce Gordon Gallery presents “50 Years In A Flash,”

Joyce Gordon Gallery is a commercial fine art gallery located in the downtown district of Oakland California. It exhibits art that reflects the social and cultural diversity of the Bay Area and international artists. The aim of the gallery is to respect the creative pursuits of the individual and seeks to make such work accessible to a broad audience.

JoyceGordenGallery

Joyce Gordon Gallery 
406 14th St
Oakland, California 94612
510-465-8928
www.joycegordongallery.com

Joyce Gordon Gallery
406 14th St. ?Oakland, California 94612
510-465-8928
www.joycegordongallery.com

www.facebook.com/TheJoyceGordonGallery/

Jim Dennis Photography Studio is located in Emeryville. To schedule a private tour please contact Jim Dennis at jmdennis@sbcglobal.net. Learn more at his website:  www.jimdennisphotography.com

For a past historic Artist Talk with Jim Dennis the SF Moma wrote: “San Francisco native Jim Dennis’ skills were honed partly in the Jazz club called “The Both And” in North Beach shooting photos of legends such as Miles Davis and Wes Montgomery. He eventually became a staff photographer for Eastman Kodak. After a long career using the most cutting edge camera equipment he’s amassed an accomplished body of work that includes portraits of well-known public figures, landscapes and nudes.” full article

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Rolando Morales Duo will perform Thursday July 28, 2016 at San Jose Fairmont

Rolando Morales and Danilo Paiz will perform at the Fairmont San Jose
Rolando Morales and Danilo Paíz will perform at the Fairmont San Jose

Hola, Mi Gente!

I’ve had some splendid experiences this past week at some lovely private events.  One was up high in the clouds with a panoramic view of the Bay Area.  They flew in a magical chef from northern Italy and her husband as sommelier providing the amazing Italian wines.  I blended some Italian music into my international flavors and it went over so well, I’ll be returning soon.

My Trio’s debut last Saturday at Pairings Cellars was also a hit, so another version of my Trio, will be returning there in about 3 weeks.  I’ll keep you posted.

This week I wrap up our July Calendar with my buddy Danilo Paíz.  This wonderful Latin percussionist/vocalist from Nicaragua has played with me from the very beginning when my first band Passion and Grace was newly formed.  We’ll be doing a duet performance for you South Bay fans at the San Jose Fairmont in the Lobby Lounge this Thursday, July 28 from 9-Midnight.

I also have Don Pico’s on Friday and Maria, Maria in Walnut Creek on Saturday, with all the details below.  I’ll  see you at the show!

Ciao,

Rolando

LAST PUBLIC PERFORMANCES FOR JULY 2016

Thursday July 28, The San Jose Fairmont, Lobby Lounge, 170 South Market St., San Jose CA, 9pm-Midnight.  Rolando returns for you South Bay fans to this elegant venue.  Celebrate the night with fine wines, unique martinis, appetizers and sushi along with the Rolando Morales Duet, this time featuring the Latin percussionist/vocalist from Dizzy Gillespie and Rubén Blades, Danilo Paíz; and Rolando Morales leading the way on guitar and vocals and his magic pedal board.  Free!  See www.fairmont.com/sanjose/ for info, or call (408) 998-1900.

Friday July 29, Don Pico’s Mexican Bistro, 461 El Camino Real, San Bruno, 6-9 pm.   Rolando  returns on solo guitar and voice, now in the intimate Restaurant Room.  Call (650) 589-1163 and see www.donpicosbistro.com.

Sunday July 31, Maria, Maria Cantina, 1470 North Broadway, Walnut Creek, approx. 2-5pm.  Enjoy a Mexican brunch at Carlos Santana’s lively cantina and Rolando performing on the newly renovated front patio on solo guitar and voice by the creek. (Don’t worry, if it’s too hot he’ll be indoors.)   He may be joined by Bob Harrison on flute.   www.mariamariarestaurants.com,   (925) 946-1010.

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Rolando Morales adds “Love’s in Need of Love Today” by Stevie Wonder to his repertoire.

Rolando Morales will perform Saturday July 23, Pairings Cellars, 310 Main Street, Suite B, Pleasanton CA 94566, 8-11pm with Estaire Godinez and David Belove.
Rolando Morales will perform Saturday July 23, Pairings Cellars, 310 Main Street, Suite B, Pleasanton CA 94566, 8-11pm with Estaire Godinez and David Belove.

Hola, Mi Gente!

If there has ever been a time for us to collectively channel our inner Martin Luther King, that time is now.  Too many times now, listening to the radio while driving to or from a gig, I’ve heard heart-rending, breaking news of the latest violence inflicted in another American city.

One of the songs I’ve added to my repertoire of late, sadly, has been Stevie Wonder’s “Love’s In Need Of Love Today.”   One of the lines goes: “Hate’s goin’ round breaking many hearts.  Stop it please before it’s gone too far.”

I’ve had some special moments performing these kinds of songs for receptive audiences at Wente Vineyard, The Vineand even Maria, Maria in Walnut Creek.  Some spoke to me with tears in their eyes on the breaks of how they were moved by the songs or appreciated what I wrote in these newsletters.  It seems we all want the madness to stop.  But the few with the demented will and the means to act perpetuate the violence. Better to remember Dr. King’s words:

“We must learn to live together as brothers, or perish together as fools.” March on Washington-1964

If you’re looking for healing energy and a fun escape from the news, remember that my Trio debuts  this Saturdaynight, July 23 at a brand new Wine Bar, Pairings Cellars on Main Street in downtown Pleasanton, as part of theirGrand Opening month.  We’ll have a ball playing in this intimate space with my great trio featuring the percussionist/vocalist from Prince, Estaire Godinez; the great bassist from Pete Escovedo, David Belove; and I’ll be there on guitar, guitar synth and voice.  Details below.  Don’t miss it!

The beautiful Estaire Godinez and David Belove
The beautiful Estaire Godinez and David Belove

There’s still much more left in this second half of the calendar. Make your reservations and I’ll  see you at the show!

Ciao,

Rolando

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Artist Highlight – Mazella Houston

Mazella Houston, big band vocalist enchants audiences

Born in the southern state of North Carolina, Mazella started playing piano as a natural gift for her youth choir at the local Baptist church she attended, until leaving North Carolina for a tour with the U.S. Army, Germany in 1977.

Returning to the U. S. in 1980, Mazella appeared in the Fort Hood production of “Purlie Victorious”.. At the close of the show, Mazella took on a dare to run for the title of “Ms. Fort Hood”, the largest military installation in the free world, where she won the talent competition and was crowned both “Ms. Fort Hood” and “Ms. Congeniality”. Mazella soon after moved to Houston, TX where she rediscovered her love and voice for singing.

During her tenure in Houston, Mazella sang on the worship team for churches such as; Lakewood, The Light Christian Center and New Covenant Praise. Also during this time, Mazella developed, initiated and launched a music movement called “music therapy” in the Christ-Centered nationally known in-hospital therapy program called, RAPHA. Mazella managed 32 teams of musicians who held weekly music therapy sessions in several different hospitals throughout the Houston area Moving to Southern California in the early nineties, Mazella was given the opportunity to further develop her program in various treatment centers in the Los Angles and Burbank areas.

Mazella wrote and produced her first EP album called “Windows of the Soul” released in the summer of 1999, with the popular tune “Let’s Talk About Life” and the powerful tune, “Potter and the Clay“. The project has six tunes all written by Mazella, and one co-written with, Jimmy Zeigler (Bill and Ted‘s Excellent Adventures).

Later that same year, Mazella returned to the studio co-producing with Larry Allen, (Stevie Wonder, Ricky Grundy, Ming Freeman, Doug Grisby, Tina Marie), to write and produce 6 more tunes for her next project, “The Fire of Life Itself”, released in the fall of 2000. Mazella toured Europe that same year, performing concerts in France and Belgium.

In the spring of the following year, Mazella recorded a live version of “The Fire of Life Itself with musicians, Dale Ockerman-on keys, (Doobie Brother’s), Tyran Porter, on bass (Doobie Brother’s), Donnie Balwdin on drums (Jefferson Starship), Johnny Gunn on guitar (Eddie Money), Rock Hendricks on horns, and various other talented music friends.

In 2007, Mazella launched “The Black Pearl Project”, along with Larrie Ray Noble, Sr., and for the next 7 years booked and performed an average of 150 gigs per year in the San Francisco Bay and surrounding areas. Performing at such venue as, “Biscuit and Blues, Carnelian Room, Presidio Golf Club, Piedmont Community Church, Lake Merritt Hotel, Scottish Rite Center, Oakland City of San Ramon, City of San Francisco as well as numerous fine dining restaurants.

Mazella has performed with Lou Rawls, Danced with “Prince”, Contra Costa Jazz Band, the Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra, with “Soundwave”, the Bob Enos (Julliard, Stan Kenton).

Mazella and her “World Class Pearl Big Band is currently performing at The California Theater in Pittsburg, California and other Bay Area theaters and venues.  Keep up to date on her amazing musical career on Facebook.

 

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Rolando Morales Public Performance July 2016

Rolando Morales , Estaire Godinez and David Belove will perform on Saturday July 23rd at Pairings Cellars in downtown Pleasanton.
Rolando Morales , Estaire Godinez and David Belove will perform on Saturday July 23rd at Pairings Cellars in downtown Pleasanton.
Rolando Morales Performances July 2016

Thursday July 14, Vine at Bridges, 480 Hartz Avenue, Danville, approx 7-10pm.  After 2 months away, The Rolando Morales Duet returns to this cool winery and nightspot for its only Thursday night appearance, coinciding with the Danville Car Show.  Enjoy a wonderful selection of wines, superb dinners and munchies while enjoying this powerful duet.  Tonight Rolando reunites with the Latin percussionist/vocalist from Uruguay, the leader of Candela, Edgardo Cambón; and on guitar, voice and his pedal board of magic, the passionate Rolando Morales.  Don’t miss it! www.thevineatbridges.com, (925) 820-7210. 

Friday July 15, Don Pico’s Mexican Bistro, 461 El Camino Real, San Bruno, 6 to 9 pm.   Rolando  returns on solo guitar and voice in the intimate Restaurant Room.  (650) 589-1163 and see  www.donpicosbistro.com.

Saturday July 16, Wente Vineyards, Estate Winery and Tasting Room Patio, 5050 Arroyo Road, Livermore CA 94550, 1-5pm.  Rolando’s first public Wente appearance was a hit, so he returns a second time.  Enjoy a superb wine tasting experience on the lovely Wente Estate and enjoy Rolando on solo guitar and voice out on the patio among the lush grounds of the Estate Winery.  www.wentevineyards.com/tasting-rooms/estate-winery-tasting-room.

Sunday July 17, Maria, Maria Cantina, 1470 North Broadway, Walnut Creek, approx 2-5pm.  Enjoy a Mexican brunch at Carlos Santana’s lively cantina and Rolando performing on the newly renovated front patio on solo guitar and voice by the creek. He may be joined by     Bob Harrison on flute.  www.mariamariarestaurants.com,   (925) 946-1010. 

Friday July 22, Don Pico’s Mexican Bistro, 461 El Camino Real, San Bruno, 6-9 pm.   Rolando  returns on solo guitar and voice, now in the intimate Restaurant Room.  Call (650) 589-1163 and   www.donpicosbistro.com.

Saturday July 23, Pairings Cellars, 310 Main Street, Suite B, Pleasanton CA 94566, 8-11pm.  Rolando debuts at this brand new, exciting social hotspot in downtown Pleasanton.  This new wine bar will feature fine wines, tapas and the Rolando Morales Trio, featuring from Prince and George Benson, the charismatic Latin percussionist/vocalist    Estaire Godinez; from Pete Escovedo and Tito Puente, bassist David Belove; and Rolando Morales leading the way on guitar, guitar synth and voice.  Free! www.pairingscellars.com, (925) 398-8846.

Sunday July 24, Maria, Maria Cantina, 1470 North Broadway, Walnut Creek, approx 2-5pm.  Enjoy a Mexican brunch at Carlos Santana’s lively cantina and Rolando performing on the newly renovated front patio on solo guitar and voice by the creek. He may be joined by Bob Harrison on flute.  (925) 946-1010  to  www.mariamariarestaurants.com

Rolando Morales Duo at Fairmont July 28, 2016

Thursday July 28, The San Jose Fairmont, Lobby Lounge, 170 South Market St., San Jose CA, 9pm-Midnight.  Rolando returns for you South Bay fans to this elegant venue.  Celebrate the night with fine wines, unique martinis, appetizers and sushi along with the Rolando Morales Duet, this time featuring the Latin percussionist/vocalist from Dizzy Gillespie, Danilo Paíz; and Rolando Morales leading the way on guitar and vocals and his magic pedal board.  Free!  See www.fairmont.com/sanjose/ for info, or call (408) 998-1900.

Friday July 29, Don Pico’s Mexican Bistro, 461 El Camino Real, San Bruno, 6-9 pm.   Rolando  returns on solo guitar and voice, now in the intimate Restaurant Room.  Call (650) 589-1163 and  www.donpicosbistro.com. 

Sunday July 31, Maria, Maria Cantina, 1470 North Broadway, Walnut Creek, approx 2-5pm.  Enjoy a Mexican brunch at Carlos Santana’s lively cantina and Rolando performing on the newly renovated front patio on solo guitar and voice by the creek. He may be joined by Bob Harrison on flute.(925) 946-1010.   www.mariamariarestaurants.com  

All other shows are private.  Why not hire Rolando for your own private event?  He’s available for corporate shows, weddings, parties, concerts and festivals. The Rolando Morales group is available as sextet, quintet, quartet, trio and duo depending on your entertainment needs and budget.  
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Rolando Morales shares his thoughts about this week.

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“True peace is not merely the absence of tension; it is the presence of justice.”
                Martin Luther King, Jr., Stride Towards Freedom, 1958

Hola, Mi Gente!

It’s been a tough week for our country. So much tragedy and violence, needlessly inflicted. We feel burdened with pain and anger. We’re reminded of how little some things have changed over the last six decades. How do we as a nation move forward?

I thought President Obama delivered a beautiful, powerful speech today at the memorial for the five fallen officers in Dallas. Playing the role yet again of Consoler in Chief, he helped the nation cope with the violence which has traumatized our country, while at the same time, eloquently compelling us to admit to the real racial oppression that people of color experience daily. He urged us to listen to one another, to find the similarities that unite us and to empathize with and acknowledge the real pain each side experiences.

I was encouraged to hear him say that “we will need to act on the truths that we know. And that’s not easy, it makes us uncomfortable. But we’re going to have to be honest with each other and ourselves.” That’s the way forward.

At all my performances, I have been including special songs to ease our hearts and souls in these trying times. Even at last Saturday’s Sausalito Seahorse performance, our world class band played a rendition of Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Goin’ On?” to an appreciative audience. Big thanks to Carlos Reyes, Estaire Godinez, Celso Alberti and David Belove for their talents, and to all of you who packed the Seahorse again.

This Thursday I’m doing a special show at The Vine at Bridges in Danville on Thursday July 14 with my talented buddy from Uruguay, Edgardo Cambón. I’ve been away from there for a few months, and they’ll have the 2016 Danville Hot Summer Nights Hot Rod and Classic Car Show happening right outside, so it’s definitely worth coming out for. Details.

I’m also returning to Wente Vineyards this Saturday July 16 from 1-5pm on solo guitar and voice. Details.

I’m also excited to be part of the Grand Opening of a new Wine Bar, Pairings Cellars on Main Street in downtown Pleasanton. We’ll be kicking off our appearances there next week Saturday night, July 23 with a great trio featuring the percussionist/vocalist from Prince, Estaire Godinez; the great bassist from Pete Escovedo, David Belove; and I’ll be there on guitar, guitar synth and voice. Details.

There’s so much more in store. Just check out the calendar, make your reservations and I’ll see you at the show!

Ciao,
Rolando

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Rolando Morales will perform Wente Vineyards, Estate Winery and Tasting Room Patio, July 16th

Rolando Morales will performo Wente Vineyards, Estate Winery and Tasting Room Patio, July 16th
Rolando Morales will perform at Wente Vineyards, Estate Winery and Tasting Room Patio, July 16th

Saturday July 16, Wente Vineyards, Estate Winery and Tasting Room Patio, 5050 Arroyo Road, Livermore CA 94550, 1-5pm.  Rolando’s first public Wente appearance was a hit, so he returns a second time.  Enjoy a superb wine tasting experience on the lovely Wente Estate and enjoy Rolando on solo guitar and voice out on the patio among the lush grounds of the Estate Winery.  www.wentevineyards.com/tasting-rooms/estate-winery-tasting-room.

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Rolando Morales Superstar line up at Seahorse Sausalito on July 9th, 2016

Rolando Morales, David Belove, Celso Alberti, Estaire Godinez , Carlos Reyes, Sausalito Seahorse, July 9 2016
Full Rolando Morales Quintet to perform Saturday July 9, 2016 at Sausalito Seahorse

Saturday July 9, “An Evening with Rolando Morales and Carlos Reyes,” Sausalito Seahorse, 305 Harbor Drive, Sausalito, approx 8:30-11:30pm.  These two passionate musicians finally return to The Seahorse to put on their unique show at this fun waterfront restaurant and club.  The great Paraguayan harpist/violinist Carlos Reyes and passionate guitarist/vocalist Rolando Morales will play a short set in duet to close out the dinner hour, followed by a concert and dancing to the World Class Rolando Morales Group featuring from the Pete Escovedo Orchestra, the rock-solid bassist David Belove; from Brazil, the exciting drummer from Airto and Steve Winwood, Celso Alberti; from Prince and George Benson, the Latin percussionist/vocalist Estaire Godinez; from Paraguay, the thrilling violinist and harpist from Arturo Sandoval and Steve Miller, Carlos Reyes; and the powerful Rolando Morales leading the journey on guitar, guitar synthesizer and vocals.   Don’t miss it!   $15.  Make your  reservations at (415) 331-2899. www.sausalitoseahorse.com

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Edgardo Cambon joins Roland Morales at The Vine at Bridges, July 14, 2016

Edgar Cambon joins Rolando Morales tonight at The Vine at Bridges
Edgar Cambon joins Rolando Morales tonight at The Vine at Bridges

Thursday July 14, Vine at Bridges, 480 Hartz Avenue, Danville, approx. 7-10pm.  After 2 months away, The Rolando Morales Duet returns to this cool winery and nightspot for its only Thursday night appearance, coinciding with the Danville Car Show.  Enjoy a wonderful selection of wines, superb dinners and munchies while enjoying this powerful duet.  Tonight Rolando reunites with the Latin percussionist/vocalist from Uruguay, the leader of Candela, Edgardo Cambón; and on guitar, voice and his pedal board of magic, the passionate Rolando Morales.  Latin Jazz at its best. Don’t miss it!  www.thevineatbridges.com, (925) 820-7210.

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Artist Highlight – Ehud Asherie

Ehud Asherie
Ehud Asherie

Ehud Asherie, “a master of swing and stride” (The New Yorker), is a jazz pianist who integrates the venerable New York piano tradition into his inventive style. Born in Israel in 1979, Asherie lived in Italy for six years before his family moved to New York.

Though he began playing piano as a child, his passion for jazz came later—with a Thelonious Monk cassette tape—and his first visit to Smalls Jazz club in Greenwich Village. Largely self-taught, or rather, “old-schooled,” Asherie learned the ropes at Smalls, spending the wee small hours of his early teens becoming a fixture of the late-night jam sessions.

Mentored by the late Frank Hewitt, Asherie began to develop “his virtuosity and his ear for clean, crisp lines“ (The Star-Ledger). From Smalls to the Rainbow Room, from Lincoln Center to The Village Vanguard, Asherie has since worked with a broad range of musicians including:

Eric Alexander, Roy Ayers, Peter Bernstein, Jesse Davis, Bobby Durham, Vince Giordano, Wycliffe Gordon, Scott Hamilton, Ryan Kisor, Jane Monheit, Catherine Russell, Ken Peplowski and Clark Terry.

Beyond his dedication to jazz music, Ehud Asherie has also developed a passion for traditional Brazilian music. His appreciation and profound knowledge of the music, language and culture are the foundation of Asherie’s project entitled Bina & Ehud, a duo formed in 2003, with Brazilian guitarist, Bina Coquet.

Asherie has toured clubs and festivals around the world, including South America, Europe and Asia. Asherie’s playing can be heard on countless recordings, including the 2010 Grammy Award winning soundtrack of HBO’s ‘Boardwalk Empire’. He recently released his twelfth album as leader entitled Shuffle Along (Blue Heron Records), a solo
piano performance.

Published on Feb 21, 2015
Provided to YouTube by The Orchard Enterprises

Perry Tannenbaum in Jazz Times praises Ehud Asherie

“After three releases on Posi-Tone leading small combos from the piano, 31-year-old Israeli native Ehud Asherie switches over to Hammond organ for his latest quartet outing, Organic. Fats Waller and Count Basie come readily to mind as jazz immortals who doubled on the two instruments. While their piano styles were more individualized than Asherie’s at this stage of his career, their doubling is reduced to dabbling when compared to Asherie’s imposing proficiency at the organ, which instantly catapults him to the front ranks of current B3 practitioners and invites comparisons with the greats of the past.”  See full article

Thank you Tom O’Neil for introducing this to www.riovida.net.  We hope to learn about the rest of your favorites.

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Rolando Morales to appear at the Wente Vineyards outdoor patio wine tasting area tomorrow!

Rolando Morales at Wente Vineyard Private Event 2016
Rolando Morales at Wente Vineyards

Tomorrow!

Saturday June 25, Wente Vineyards, Estate Winery and Tasting Room Patio, 5050 Arroyo Road, Livermore CA 94550, 1-5pm.  Rolando does his first public Wente appearance.  Enjoy a superb wine tasting on the lovely Wente Estate and enjoy Rolando on solo guitar and voice out on the patio among the lush grounds of the Estate Winery.  www.wentevineyards.com/tasting-rooms/estate-winery-tasting-room.